Grants
What We Fund
Funding Principles
Builds resilience and/or demonstrates the ability to adapt to changing societal and environmental circumstances
Reduces disparities in
our community
Increases accessibility
Responsive to, or aware of,
root causes
Considers racial and/or
gender equity
Serves populations that are underserved or not reached through other resources or organizations
Eligibility
Applicants must qualify as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, either individually or under the auspices of a qualified fiscal agent or sponsor.
Organizations must be located in Mecklenburg County, or the majority of the clients it serves must be located in Mecklenburg County If you are a local chapter of a national organization, please make clear the services provided in Mecklenburg County in your application and budget.
We do not fund fraternal organizations, capital or endowment campaigns, or organizations that require or teach particular religious beliefs in order to receive services.
Eligibility
Applicants must qualify as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, either individually or under the auspices of a qualified fiscal agent or sponsor.
Organizations must be located in Mecklenburg County, or the majority of the clients it serves must be located in Mecklenburg County If you are a local chapter of a national organization, please make clear the services provided in Mecklenburg County in your application and budget.
Program Areas
Women’s Impact Fund makes annual grants in five program areas. Nonprofits must
choose in which program area to apply.
Spark Awards
In March 2024, Women’s Impact Fund announced new Spark Awards for inspiring women change leaders in Mecklenburg County. Awardees will receive an unrestricted award of $5,000 to cultivate their individual care, renewal, growth, and healing.
From January 6 through January 25, 2025, WIF will welcome nominations of female leaders working in direct relationship with community members to drive transformational change in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. These leaders may include but are not limited to, employees or volunteers working with nonprofit organizations, leaders of grassroots movements, community organizers, activists, and more. Anyone who identifies as a woman is eligible for an award; however, they must be 21 years or older.
Spark Award recipients will have full discretion to use the funds in any way they choose. In addition, to the cash award, recipients will also receive a one-year WIF membership to provide additional opportunities for connection, leadership, and growth.
Learn more: 2025 Spark FAQ
Spark Grants
In March 2024, we announced new Spark Awards for inspiring women change leaders in Mecklenburg County. Awardees will receive an unrestricted award of $5,000 to cultivate their individual care, renewal, growth, and healing.
WIF welcomes nominations of female leaders working in direct relationship with community members to drive transformational change in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. These leaders may include, but are not limited to, employees or volunteers working with nonprofit organizations, leaders of grassroots movements, community organizers, activists, and more. Anyone who identifies as a woman is eligible for an award; however, they must be 21 years or older.
Spark Award recipients will have full discretion to use the funds in any way they choose. In addition, to the cash award, recipients will also receive a one-year WIF membership to provide additional opportunities for connection, leadership, and growth.
Learn more in our Spark Award FAQ document here. Nominate a woman change leader here by March 20.
